Fayetteville, AR Environmental Rules: Coastal Development (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing Code
- UDC Sec. 168.12
- Waterside Zone
- 25 ft from top of bank
- Total Buffer
- 50 ft minimum
- Prohibited
- Grading, building, fill, septic
- Established
- Ord. 5390 (2011)
Summary
Fayetteville protects streams with buffer zones under Section 168.12. A 25-foot waterside zone and 25-foot management zone, at least 50 feet from the top of bank, restrict grading, building, and other activity along protected streams and FEMA floodways.
Zone 1: Waterside Zone. The waterside zone shall extend a minimum of 25 feet landward from the top of bank in each direction, measured horizontally on a line perpendicular to the top of bank and includes the surface water. Zone 2: Management Zone. The management zone shall begin at the outer edge of the Waterside Zone and extend landward 25 feet as measured horizontally on a line perpendicular to Zone 1. The combined width of Zones 1 and 2 shall be no less than 50 feet from the top of bank on all sides of the surface water.
Full Breakdown
Adopted by Ordinance 5390 (March 1, 2011) and amended in 2021, Section 168.12 establishes two streamside protection zones along surface waters on the city's Protected Streams Map and any FEMA-designated floodway. Zone 1, the waterside zone, extends at least 25 feet landward from the top of bank, widened another 20 feet where slopes reach 15%. Zone 2, the management zone, adds 25 feet, so the combined buffer is no less than 50 feet from the top of bank. New grading, dredging, filling, buildings over 150 square feet, parking, septic systems, in-ground pools, feedlots, and livestock are prohibited in both zones. Development applications must map the zones and top of bank.
Violations & Fines
Prohibited grading, filling, or construction within a streamside zone violates Section 168.12; the City Engineer may order remedial measures and issue a stop-work order under Section 153.07, withholding plat approval or a certificate of occupancy until corrected.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Sources & Official References
Other rules in Fayetteville
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